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On the verge of entering the world of basenjidom

Member Introductions
  • Hi all,

    If everything goes according to plan, in about mid-march, I will be acquiring a 10-week old male Basenji puppy. I have done lots of research leading up to choosing this breed and so am preparing myself, based on what I've read, for what looks like a challenging adventure with never a dull moment!

    I am certain you will find me posting lots of questions on this forum in the coming weeks and months.

    And as soon as the new bundle is settled, I will try and post some pictures!

  • Welcome. Who is the breeder of your pup?

  • Welcome to the forum. Is it a Portuguese puppy you're getting?/

  • Thanks. Yes, it a 'Portuguese' basenji as the breeder is local and listed with the FCI. She only breeds basenjis. Although my first visit to see the puppies will probably be in about a week, I get a good vibe from her on the telephone. For example, she wanted to wait longer before I see the pups so that their immune systems are stronger from breast-feeding. She has taken a number of pictures and even videos and emailed them to me. She says she even provides a little hand-out in Portuguese to all new owners so they have a better understanding of the breed and what to except. Sounds promising, right?

  • Yes, sounds very promising. I'm sure you'll soon be enthralled by a Basenji puppy.

  • I am really looking forward to this. I haven't felt so much anticipation since I was a kid at Christmas time (and believe me that was a very long time ago)!

Suggested Topics

  • Hi I’m Stephanie!

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    SavingS
    Hi Stephanie, welcome and welcome to the breed.
  • Seeking a new family member from Texas

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    @msjames, @tanza did you a solid favor outlining expectations. Networking really is key to finding a "reputable" breeder. Most show their dogs and are connected to other breeders through showing. They all seem to know who is planning a litter and who isn't. I completely agree with Pat that you should meet your breeder in person prior to the puppies even being born. You can learn a lot. Is a Basenji right for you? If you want a dog to hang with you in the driveway with the garage door open as you chat with neighbors, or stand calmly with the front door open as you receive a UPS package... ABSOLUTELY NOT!!! Basenjis will bolt. they'll be gone in a second. They see it. They chase it. And if you think you have them trained... no. They've trained you. When they see it they will chase it. Basenjis, in my experience, need exercise. Mine get two walks a day. When they don't, they can be destructive. They're not shy about expressing frustration or displeasure through chewing up your best stuff. A big secure yard can mitigate this, but that's not a guarantee. They love seeing outside, so keep your blinds and drapes open otherwise they may open them themselves even if that requires chewing through them. They will climb onto windowsills, tables and low counter tops. They are capable of scaling a six-foot fence. They are known to climb trees. These are extreme examples, but better to know now. They are super affectionate. They can be trained... to a point. They are clowns and provide endless entertainment. A Basenji baroo is the best sound ever! They love to snuggle and will sleep on your bed and under the spreads and sheets if you let them. They love to share body heat. Tail twitches when I return home are the best!
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    @basenjilovers - She is very cute, please make sure that DNA testing was done for Fanconi and PRA. And if not or you are not sure, you can get the test kits at www.ofa.org. You do the test as it is a cheek swab.
  • Hello!

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    @kristiesad So cute!!
  • Hello Basenji World!

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    Thank you thank you for the great advice and direction toward OFFA! I actually researched that information somewhat before I went to visit, then asked to make sure what was on the site was true from Kyle and Steve's mouths! Everything checked out so far with them–no health issues whatsoever :) So exciting! Blah, this will be the longest 4 months of my life, methinks!
  • New to the B world

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    Welcome to you and kudos for rescuing your dog. Whatever breed she is, she is yours to love and enjoy.